Ferrari heads into the Mexican GP with unexpected momentum after their one-two finish in Texas, now trailing Red Bull by just eight points and leaders McLaren by 40 in the Constructors’ Championship. With Carlos Sainz on pole and Charles Leclerc starting fourth, Ferrari is the only title contender fielding both cars in the top 10, giving them a significant edge in their hunt for maximum points this weekend.
Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur sees their current position as an advantage, with the spotlight firmly on the rivalry between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. “We have the advantage of being under the radar,” Vasseur told Sky Sports. “The discussion is more about the fight between Lando and Max… and for me, it’s perfect.” This low-key approach, he believes, will allow Ferrari to maximize their potential without the weight of being in the title debate’s limelight.
Sainz, set to depart Ferrari for Williams next season, understands the importance of Ferrari’s push for maximum points and aims to keep his pole advantage into Turn 1. “It’s our number one priority,” Sainz emphasized, knowing a win brings crucial points. “I’ll be just looking forward to keep that P1 into Turn 1, and from there, hopefully our race pace should be good enough to win it.”
Reflecting on Ferrari’s unexpected pole in Mexico, Vasseur acknowledged the team’s energized dynamic. “The whole team is in a dynamic mood, feeling plenty of energy after Austin,” he said. “Carlos did a very good job… and even though Charles was not very happy with his lap, he is just a couple of thousandths behind Lando [Norris].” Vasseur noted that the long run to Turn 1 and Mexico’s unpredictable nature make holding grid positions challenging but believes Ferrari’s double-pronged front-row effort offers strategic flexibility.
With both drivers well-placed for points and Ferrari brimming with confidence, Vasseur stressed the importance of race execution. “It will be a very long race,” he added, “and the most important thing will be to have good pace on the long stint, run a good strategy, and execute the race perfectly.” Ferrari’s quiet but determined charge has brought them back into the title mix, setting up an intriguing showdown in Mexico.
